Seaside Piers

The seaside pier epitomises the charm of the British seaside. This section provides information about the major seaside piers of North and East England. We've included details including their history, year of opening and the types of attractions, activities and facilities available to visitors. Information has been collected from the National Piers Society.

North England Seaside Piers

Blackpool Central Pier - Central Pier was built in 1868 and is one of three Victorian piers found on Blackpool's sea front. During its hey-day, it was known as the 'people's pier' and was renowned for its open-air dance floor. The pier underwent modernisation in the 1980s and a large ferris wheel was later added. It now includes dodgems, an amusement centre as well as fishing facilities for permit holders. Date of Opening: 1868, Length: 1118ft, Address: Promenade, City Centre, Blackpool FY1 5BD

Blackpool North Pier - This is the oldest of the Blackpool Piers and has a Grade II designation. Dating back to the later 19th century, the pier underwent a number of modifications including the addition of an Indian Pavilion, a tramway and landing jetty. It retains its handsome theatre and carousel bar and features traditional seaside attractions which include an amusement arcade and carousel ride. Date of Opening: 1863, Length: 1410ft, Address: North Pier Promenade, Blackpool FY1 1NE

Blackpool South Pier - Situated in the South Shore region of Blackpool, South Pier is the shortest of Blackpool's piers and offered a more 'up-market' alternative upon its opening in 1893. It featured the 3000 capacity, Grand Pavilion which was later destroyed by fire. The modern day pier includes a collection of white-knuckle rides as well as more traditional fairground amusements such as dodgems and carousels. Date of Opening: 1893, Length: 492ft, Address: Blackpool FY4 1

Cleethorpes Pier - Cleethorpes Pier originally spanned 1200ft and included a pavilion. However it was shortened during World Water II to hinder German invasion. A 600 seat concert hall was constructed during the 1960s which played host to bingo and sporting events such as wrestling. It was then converted into a nightclub during the 1980s and has recently be re-opened with a 24 hour drinking licence. Date of Opening: 1873, Length: 335ft, Address: North Promenade Cleethorpes, DN35 8SF

Cromer Pier - A 500 foot iron pier which dates back to the early 20th century, Cromer Pier has had to evolve constantly due to inclement weather. At one time it featured an amusement arcade, bandstand and a jetty, all of which were washed away by storms. Following extensive restoration work during the 1990s, the pier was finally reopened in 2004. It now includes a seaward pavilion and foyer. Fishing is also permitted. Date of Opening: 1863, Length: 1410ft, Address: Cromer, Norfolk, NR27 9HE

Skegness Pier - Skegness Pier originally featured a large concert hall and saloon bar. However, much of the pier was lost to inclement weather over the years. Despite several failed attempts at redevelopment, the shoreward end of the pier was modernised during the 1990s with the opening of a ten-pin bowling alley with amusement arcades and shops. Re-decking and refurbishment of the pier head was also completed in 2006. Date of Opening: 1881, Length: 387ft, Address: Grand Parade, Skegness, Midlands PE25 2UE

Southport Pier - At over 3,000 feet, this is the second longest pier in the United Kingdom and is a Grade II listed structure. It originally featured a baggage line and refreshment rooms for steam boat passengers. A tram was also added in 1865 and a modified version, that can accommodate up to 100 people, still operates. The pier is also home to a traditional carousel and amusement park which is located at the shore end. Date of Opening: 1881, Length: 387ft, Address: Southport seafront